Platform on new construction, renovation, restoration and transformation
With the transformation of the National Archives, the entire interior was also addressed. The interior is new and looks modern, yet gives the impression that it has always been there. Meeting rooms, cabinets and pantries consistently follow the lines of the structure, creating a rustic whole.
Designer, producer and executor of the interior is KP Interieur. In cooperation with Van Eijk & Van der Lubbe architects, it initially handed over a total price for the renewal of the interior. Then the challenge was to also realize the interior within the set budget. "There was plenty of room for our own input," says Jeroen Schopman, director of KP Interieur. "In fact, we had only been given a drawing with the floor area. But we also wanted to deliver the best possible product. In the end, we spent six months preparing the project and six months implementing it."
In line with architectural lines
In order for the interior to fit perfectly with the walls in the building, KP Interieur took them as the starting point for sizing. Thus, the new reception desk, the stairway with new steps and the benches, tables, locker cabinets and partitions were designed completely in line with the architectural lines. "It was a comprehensive project," Schopman says. "The entire building was given a new interior. In doing so, we had to take into account the installations. Most of the installations were concealed from view."
Collaboration with stakeholders
The cooperation started with an introductory meeting, which was soon followed by a good conversation in the studio. This included the builder, architect and client. "The sooner we can think along, the sooner we can inform all parties involved about the possibilities. To this end, we often undertake extensive searches and listen carefully to the wishes and requirements. For example, we already work out very preliminary proposals in 3D and sample details with the initially preferred material. Only when the choices are final does the design go to the drawing board, the Work Preparation and Calculation Department."
Realization of customized solutions
Once designs are final, they are sent digitally to the machines, where the furniture makers take over the work. In the 1,600 m² production area - the beating heart of KP Interieur - they realize the designs exactly to size, so that they can be assembled at their destination without any problems. Schopman: "We have a lot of experience in large projects. We have delivered custom solutions for various schools, museums, offices, healthcare institutions and hospitality companies."
At the National Archives, the challenge for KP Interieur was not so much in the interior components as in the frameworks set. "We were tied to a budget and took into account all wishes and requirements, including, of course, those of the user and the architect. But we also wanted to have our own creative input. It is important that interior elements work, that they do what they are designed to do and last a long time."
